Vocational Students

What is an M-1 visa?

An M-1 visa is for applicants whose primary purpose of travel to the United States is to study in a vocational program. If you are planning to travel to the United States primarily for tourism but would also like to study, you may be able to do so using a B-1/B-2 visa. However, if your primary purpose of travel is to study, you generally will need a student visa.

For a more complete explanation of the M visa, please see 9 FAM 41.61. (PDF 293 KB)

Spouse and Children of an M Principal Alien

Spouses and children under the age of 21, regardless of nationality, can apply for and receive M-2 visas to accompany or follow-to-join the principal alien in the United States. Derivatives receive the same visa classification as the principal alien.

How do I apply for an M-1 visa?

Please see our How to Apply for a Visa page.

Which documents are required to apply for an M visa?

Please see our Documents Required for Visa Application page.